United’s Midfield Exposed Again: Alex Iwobi Reveals How Fulham Exploited Ruben Amorim’s Side as Saha and Young Call for Urgent Reinforcements

Alex Iwobi admitted Fulham had identified weaknesses in Manchester United’s set-up and “exploited” them in Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw at Craven Cottage.

United looked on course to secure their first win of the season after Rodrigo Muniz bundled into his own net on the hour mark, giving Ruben Amorim’s side the lead. But Fulham fought back, with substitute Emile Smith Rowe coming off the bench to equalise and rescue a point for Marco Silva’s side.

The result means United are still searching for their first league victory of the new campaign, and it raised more questions about Amorim’s midfield — a concern that former players Louis Saha and Ashley Young say must be addressed before the transfer window closes.

Fernandes Fluffs His Lines

The turning point in the match came long before the goals. United had a golden opportunity to take control when Mason Mount was dragged down inside the box by Calvin Bassey. Captain Bruno Fernandes, usually one of the most reliable penalty-takers in the league, stepped up — only to balloon his spot-kick high over the bar.

That miss gave Fulham belief, and though United eventually found a way through from a corner, Fernandes’ failure from 12 yards summed up an afternoon where Amorim’s men lacked a cutting edge.

Fulham Grow Into the Game

For much of the opening half, United looked the more threatening side. Matheus Cunha forced an early save, while Leny Yoro’s physical presence caused problems from set-pieces. When the Frenchman’s effort was eventually turned into his own net by Muniz, it seemed United would cruise to victory.

But Fulham’s response was impressive. Smith Rowe’s equaliser was no more than they deserved after a spell of sustained pressure. As Iwobi explained afterwards, Fulham’s game plan was to target weaknesses in United’s set-up — particularly in midfield — and it worked.

“We saw areas where we could hurt them,” Iwobi admitted. “We tried to take advantage of that, and it gave us confidence after they scored. We knew if we stayed patient, chances would come.”

Saha and Young: United Must Act in the Market

While Fulham celebrated a hard-earned point, the bigger story for United was the midfield problem that once again reared its head. Amorim has so far trusted Casemiro and new signing Manuel Ugarte, with Fernandes operating further forward. But against Fulham, the trio failed to provide balance, control, or aggression in key moments.

That weakness has led to fresh calls for reinforcements, with two ex-United stars urging the club to make a U-turn in the transfer market.

Louis Saha told Sky Sports:

“This is why they’ve been in the market looking at Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. They need power, they need players who can take the ball and drive forward. At the moment, United just don’t have that aggression and confidence.”

Ashley Young echoed those thoughts, adding:

“They do need someone else in midfield. Someone who can get up and down, defend, but also play. If it’s Baleba, maybe he’s the answer.”

The Baleba Question

United had tracked Baleba earlier in the summer but baulked at Brighton’s £115 million valuation of the Cameroon international. That stance appeared final, with reports suggesting the Red Devils would not return with another bid.

But after back-to-back underwhelming league performances, pressure is mounting on Amorim and the board to reconsider. At just 20 years old, Baleba has already shown at Brighton that he can dominate midfield battles with his energy and confidence on the ball — traits United are clearly lacking.

What About Mainoo?

Another option available to Amorim is closer to home. Academy product Kobbie Mainoo impressed during his breakthrough season but has yet to feature in the Premier League this term. At just 20, he is still learning the defensive side of the game, but giving him minutes could help both his development and United’s current midfield struggles.

However, Amorim has so far been cautious, preferring experience in Casemiro and Ugarte. With results already under the spotlight, the United boss may be reluctant to put too much responsibility on young shoulders.

Bigger Picture for United

Two games in, United have just one point to show for their efforts. A narrow defeat to Arsenal and this draw at Fulham are not disastrous results in isolation, but the performances have exposed familiar flaws.

United’s attack looks inconsistent, Fernandes appears weighed down by the armband, and the midfield lacks dynamism. Casemiro’s legs are showing their age, Ugarte is still adapting to English football, and Mount is struggling to influence games from midfield.

If no new signing arrives, United risk another season of inconsistency — one where they can compete in spells but lack the control to dominate games.